Creating a Console application using a Plain-Text Editor and the C Compiler

In order to use a plain-text editor to create a Console application that is written in C#, you’ll need the C# Compiler. The C# Compiler (csc.exe), can be found at the following location: %WINDIR%\Microsoft.NET\Framework64\v4.0.30319\csc.exe

N.B. Depending upon which version of the .NET Framework that is installed on your system, you may need to change the path above, accordingly.

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Saving the Code

The purpose of this topic is not to teach you how to write a Console application, but to teach you how to compile one [to produce a single executable file], with nothing other than the C# Compiler and any Plain-Text Editor (such as Notepad).

Open the Run dialog, by using the keyboard shortcut Windows Key + R

Type notepad, then hit Enter

Paste the example code below, into Notepad

Save the file as ConsoleApp.cs, by going to File → Save As…, then entering ConsoleApp.cs in the ‘File Name’ text field, then selecting All Files as the file-type.

Now, go back to where you originally saved your ConsoleApp.cs file. You should now see an executable file (ConsoleApp.exe). Double-click ConsoleApp.exe to open it.

That’s it! Your console application has been compiled. An executable file has been created and you now have a working Console app.

usingSystem;namespaceConsoleApp{classProgram{privatestaticstringinput=String.Empty;staticvoidMain(string[]args){gotoDisplayGreeting;DisplayGreeting:{Console.WriteLine("Hello! What is your name?");input=Console.ReadLine();if(input.Length>=1){Console.WriteLine("Hello, "+input+", enter 'Exit' at any time to exit this app.");gotoAwaitFurtherInstruction;}else{gotoDisplayGreeting;}}AwaitFurtherInstruction:{input=Console.ReadLine();if(input.ToLower()=="exit"){input=String.Empty;Environment.Exit(0);}else{gotoAwaitFurtherInstruction;}}}}}